The Biological Approach

Full transcript

Biological psychology examines how processes inside the body influence the way we think, feel and behave. One major focus is the brain and nervous system, which play a central role in controlling everything we do. The brain contains specialised cells called neurons. Neurons carry electrical signals, allowing information to travel rapidly through the nervous system. Where neurons meet, they communicate across tiny gaps called synapses, and chemical messengers called neurotransmitters help signals pass from one neuron to another. Biological psychologists also study hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers released into the bloodstream, and they can influence important processes such as stress, aggression and bonding between individuals. Genetics provides another important biological influence on behaviour. We inherit genes from our biological parents, and these genes can influence the development and functioning of both our bodies and our brains throughout our lives. Biological psychologists also use evolution to explain behaviour. Characteristics that increased the chances of survival and reproduction may have become more common across generations through the process of natural selection. However, biology does not work in isolation. Our biological characteristics interact with our experiences and environment. The biological approach therefore investigates how the brain, hormones, genes and evolution all contribute to the way we think, feel and behave.